Dr Rusthoven is Professor of Oncology, Department of Oncology, McMaster University and part-time consulting oncologist, Brantford General Hospital, Brantford, Ontario. He attended Trinity Christian College until 1971, then received his medical school training at the University of Illinois. His graduate training was in internal medicine (University of Toronto), infectious diseases (University of Chicago), and medical oncology (Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto). Dr Rusthoven engaged in full-time oncology practice in an academic setting for 16 years, teaching and engaging in immunology research at the Toronto Regional Cancer Centre, University of Toronto for six years, then teaching and doing clinical research at the Hamilton Regional Cancer Centre, McMaster University for ten years. During that time he was actively involved in the design and implementation of clinical studies in melanoma and lung cancer with the National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group. He worked a senior clinical researcher at Eli Lilly and Company for three years before returning to part-time clinical practice in 2002. He has continued in part-time practice while obtaining a masters degree in bioethics at the Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto and is currently completing a PhD dissertation in theology and bioethics from Trinity College, University of Bristol, UK. Dr Rusthoven has taught undergraduate courses in bioethics and philosophy of science. He currently chairs the Biotechnology Reference Group, Canadian Council of Churches and speaks to a wider variety of groups on contemporary issues in bioethics. He is the author of over 75 peer reviewed articles and book chapters. His current research and educational interests include developing a covenantal framework for biomedical ethics and translating the complexities of bioethical concerns associated with biotechnology for students and average citizens.

Organization Description(s):

McMaster University - major secular Canadian university with medical school Biotechnology Reference Group, Canadian Council of Churches - group devoted to tracking and responding to developments in biotechnology that require serious reflection and response as members of faith communities